How Do Carbon Air Filters Work

We all have heard how the population is having a direct impact on the increasing pollution and the climate. Not only is the outside environment can be polluted but also our homes also can contain contaminants like odors, gasses, VOCs, etc. 

As we strive to live cleaner and healthier lives and want to breathe fresh air, carbon air filters are our ultimate savior for cleaner air in indoor environments. The US market projects a 6.6% increase in sales of air filters. 

Activated Carbon Filters have emerged as the ultimate solution for the removal of VOCs as they possess the unique properties of activated carbon which is chemically equipped to adsorb gaseous contaminants and improve overall air quality indoors. Not only this, but they are also effective in removing smells, dust and and larger airborne particles as well.

But how exactly do carbon air filters work? Let's take a deep dive in understanding the science and mechanics behind these essential devices.

What is Activated Carbon?

Activated Carbon or Activated Charcoal, is a form of carbon produced from coconut shells, coal, or wood. It is processed processed through activation process (exposure to 900°C heat in a tank without oxygen) to create many tiny pores which result in a large surface area and helps in trapping and removing pollutants.

The characteristic of activated carbon is the high porosity that has a large surface area, making it ideal for capturing pollutants. This high surface area is effective in adsorbing (not absorbing) a large range of contaminants.

There are numerous benefits of activated carbon as it is very efficient in filtering out contaminants from the air. It can be used in different forms in many applications like powders, blocks, etc and last but not least, it is natural and safe to use in food, water, and air purification.

Know the difference between a Carbon Filter and an Activated Carbon Filter 

The Adsorption Process

In knowing the details of carbon air filters, it is important to know the science behind them. As we have already read about activated carbon, now it's time to understand the adsorption process.

Adsorption, by definition, means to gather (a gas, liquid, or dissolved substance) on a surface in a condensed layer. It is a process in which contaminants are collected on the surface of the carbon particles rather than being absorbed into the material. 

As we have learnt the surface area is huge, hence the air purifier can hold a significant amount of pollutants. A bigger surface area provides more adsorption.

The process of adsorption is used in many industries to remove contaminants and purify substances. Some of the major applications are water treatment, air purification, gas storage, catalysis, and medical applications.

Structure of Carbon Air Filters

Knowing the structure of these filters is important. There are many types of carbon air filters available on the market and they have different designs, but there are some common components that every filter has.

1. Carbon Bed: This is the core component where the activated carbon is housed. The carbon bed can vary in thickness and density depending on the filter's design and intended use.
2. Pre-Filters: A pre-filter captures larger particles before they reach the carbon bed, which increases the life and efficiency of the activated carbon.
3. Filter Housing: The filter assembly is enclosed in a housing that directs air through the filter and ensures efficient operation.

This basic structure enables the air filter to purify the air around us with the help of carbon. To understand how the filtration process works, keep on reading.

The Process Behind Carbon Air Filters

Carbon air filters are designed to trap pollutants and improve air quality around us. The structure is simple but the output is amazing. Let’s take a look at how these components work together. 

When air enters the filter the bigger particles like dust and hair are easily captured by the pre-filter and prevent the activated carbon bed from clogging.

As the air continues through the filter, contaminants come into contact with the activated carbon. The large surface area and porous nature of the carbon allow it to adsorb a significant amount of pollutants resulting in purifying the air.

Now, the purified air exits the filter, free from many harmful contaminants and odors.

Benefits of Carbon Air Filters

These amazing carbon air filters with their power to purify the air around us offer many advantages.

Removes Odor

Activated carbon is admiringly effective at trapping odors from cooking, pets, smoke, and other sources like artificial sprays or perfume and neutralizing them to make indoor environments more pleasant.

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) Removal

VOCs are harmful chemicals emitted by household products like paints, cleaners, etc. Carbon filters are great at capturing VOCs, resulting in improved air quality and reducing the risk of respiratory issues and other health problems.

Reduction of Harmful Gases

Carbon filters can adsorb various harmful gaseous compounds, including chlorine, radon, and formaldehyde. This is particularly beneficial in areas with high pollution or industrial emissions.

Non-Toxic and Safe 

Activated carbon is a natural and non-toxic material that effectively removes pollutants from the air. Moreover, it does not release any harmful substances in return, unlike other chemicals. They are commonly used in air purifiers, and HVAC systems to create a healthier living environment.

Low Maintenance

Carbon filters are relatively easy to replace, and many systems provide simple guidelines for maintenance. Depending on usage and the level of pollutants, carbon filters can last several months before needing replacement.

Cost-Effective 

Compared to some advanced air purification technologies, carbon filters are generally affordable and provide good value for money. They do not require electricity to operate, contributing to lower energy costs.

FAQ

Do carbon air filters help with allergies?

Yes, carbon home air filters help reduce allergies by trapping and removing airborne allergens, such as dust, pollen, and pet dander from the air.

Are carbon air filters safe to use in the home?

Yes, carbon air filters are safe to use in the home. Activated carbon is a natural and non-toxic material that effectively removes pollutants from the air. Moreover, it does not release any harmful substances in return, unlike other chemicals. They are commonly used in air purifiers, and HVAC systems to create a healthier living environment.

What types of contaminants can carbon air filters remove?

Carbon air filters can remove a wide range of airborne contaminants, like VOCs specifically but limited to Formaldehyde and Methyl Methacrylate (MMA) which are emitted from industrial and household products like adhesives, paints, cleaners, and solvents, odors from cooking, pets, smoke, and other sources, harmful gases such as chlorine, radon, and some dust and pollen as well.

Carbon filters are very effective against foul smells such as cigarette and cannabis smoke, laundry product smell, car exhaust smell and other unpleasant odors. 

Can carbon air filters be reused or cleaned?

No, it is not advisable to clean and reuse the carbon filters as they are not designed for this purpose. The layer of carbon inside the filter known as carbon bed has to be packed extremely tightly with the special vibrating packing equipment which would ensure that there are no air gaps inside the bed which would allow for the untreated air to pass through.

Washing or cleaning the filter with liquid can reduce their effectiveness or even make the filter useless, as the pores that trap contaminants can become clogged by the water and cause clumping which lead to uneven distribution and untreated air leakage. It is advised that when the filter is saturated with pollutants, it should be replaced with a new one.

However, you can and should wash the two cloth pre-filter which comes in set with the canister when they become visibly dirty with dust, pollen and larger debris that gets caught by the pre-filters before it gets a chance to get into the canister and clog its surface reducing the air flow rate. 

When to Replace Your Carbon Filter

It should be replaced after every 12-24 months. The lifespan of a carbon filter is impossible to predict precisely without considering many factors affecting its useful life - level of VOCs on premises, indoor climate where the filter is used, the size of the filter compared to the volume of air that is being filtered.

We offer many sizes of carbon air filters to ensure all your needs are met at our online store. The ordering process is easy, choose your desired air filter, pair the filter with an inline duct fan of the same diameter which will be pushing air through the carbon bed and select any accessories such as intake safety guard if you have young kids or pets in the household.

Add the desired products to the cart, and order with your card or PayPal. We take care of delivering the air filter and a healthier environment to you.